Creating a Cultural Identity at USD: Kai Hopkinson-Ramsammy’s Legacy of Redefining Representation

When Kai Hopkinson-Ramsammy first came to the University of San Diego, she was unsure of what the future held. Coming from the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, she was unfamiliar with college life in California. “I've never been in a predominantly white environment before,” Hopkinson-Ramsammy states, “I worried that I would not be able to relate to people.” 

She initially felt out of her element in her classrooms. Adjusting to new teaching styles and cultural differences proved to be difficult. “I was ready to go when I first got here,” she says. “I definitely felt like I didn't belong.” 

In search of community, Hopkinson-Ramsammy joined the Student Support Services Summer Bridge Program, which assists students in succeeding on campus. Meeting people who shared her identity made her feel connected and encouraged her to be more outgoing. Programs like this shaped her experience on campus, leading her to positions of leadership. 

Over the last four years, she’s been active in many programs across campus. With French, Spanish and music minors in the College of Arts and Sciences, she participates in Choral Scholars, USD Jazz and the Gospel Choir. She’s also part of the College Corps and the National Society of Black Engineers, spaces where Hopkinson-Ramsammy can explore all sides of herself alongside a community of Changemakers.

Read the full article on page 39 of Arts & Sciences magazine (Fall 2025 issue).

— Israel Fox

The USD College of Arts and Sciences released its third annual Arts & Sciences magazine this fall. In the pages of this magazine, you will explore the impact of the liberal arts, discover current faculty research, and be inspired by student, faculty and alumni spotlights.